RACING TAXATION

Hokitika Guardian, 23 August 1928, Page 4

RACING TAXATION

RELIEF WANTED

AUCKLAND, August 21

The question of Government taxation on racing clubs was referred to by the Hon. Mr Alison during the course of bis presidential address at the annual meeting of the Takapunn Jockey Club this afternoon. Mr Alison said that the taxation paid to tlio Government amounted to 1115,295 Is sd. In addition to Government taxation, the local rating for the year amounted to £539 Is, and land tax £lls 4 s 4d, making a total taxation for the year of £18,979 9s 9d, being £3229 9s 9d in excess of the total stakes paid. It was regrettable that the Government could not see its way to make any reduction in the excessive racing taxation. Under existing conditions the club was taxed to the same extent whether the year’s working shows a profit or a loss. Such a system was inequitable and should he revised. lie felt assured they would all ho in agreement with the view expressed on. this question by the president of the Racing Conference iii his recent report to the Conference. There was no doubt that if the Government would pass amendments to the Gaming Act by which the ridiculous prohibition of publication of dividends would lie removed and permission granted to remit investments on the totalisator to clubs at race times and for the establishment of a double totalisator, most beneficial results to the State, to the racing clubs and to the sporting community would ensue. Undoubtedly sportsmen throughout New Zealand would applaud such an amendment of the Gaming Act. Bookmakers, who it was freely stated were greater in number than at any previous time in the history of the country and were flourishing, could not successfully carry on if the Gaming Act were amended as lie had mentioned.